Is the Subaru Outback naturally aspirated?
The lineup includes both naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines. The base 2.5-liter flat-four is naturally aspirated, while a turbocharged 2.4-liter option is available on higher trims.
Overview: naturally aspirated vs turbocharged in the Outback
In practical terms, “naturally aspirated” means the engine relies on atmospheric air pressure rather than a turbocharger or supercharger to force more air into the cylinders. The Subaru Outback has followed this pattern with a standard, non-turbo engine for everyday efficiency, while offering a more powerful turbo option for buyers who want stronger acceleration and towing potential. The difference affects performance, fuel economy, and driving characteristics across the model years.
Details below explain how the Outback’s engine options have been positioned and how they have appeared across generations.
Engine options and how they’re arranged by trim and year provide a clear picture for shoppers deciding between NA and turbo applications.
Naturally aspirated engine in the Outback
Before listing the specifics, here is a quick look at the naturally aspirated option most Outbacks use in recent years.
- 2.5-liter flat-four engine (commonly referred to as the FB25) that is naturally aspirated. It delivers roughly 182 horsepower and around 176 lb-ft of torque, depending on model year. This engine is paired with Subaru’s CVT and standard all-wheel drive on most trims.
- Availability: The 2.5L NA has been the baseline engine for the Outback across multiple generations, including recent 2019–2025 models, making it the default choice for buyers prioritizing smooth operation and efficiency over peak performance.
For most buyers, the 2.5L NA powertrain represents the practical heart of the Outback, offering adequate everyday performance with predictable fuel economy and strong low-end torque for city and highway driving.
Turbocharged option in the Outback
The turbocharged variant provides a substantial jump in power and towing capability, but only on higher-trim or specific package configurations. This engine is designed for those who want stronger acceleration and higher overall performance.
- 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine (FA24) that is turbocharged. It produces about 260 horsepower and around 277 lb-ft of torque, with peak output typically achieved with higher-octane fuel. This engine is paired with Subaru’s CVT in most configurations.
- Availability by trim and year: The 2.4L turbo has been offered on higher Outback trims since the redesign year around 2020 and continued in subsequent model years (e.g., Premium, Limited, Touring and related editions). It is not the standard engine on base models.
For buyers prioritizing performance and confident highway merging or light towing, the 2.4L turbo option provides a meaningful upgrade over the naturally aspirated engine, albeit with higher fuel costs and requirement considerations for fuel grade in some configurations.
Global and market variations
In markets outside the United States, Subaru has experimented with other powertrain concepts, including mild-hybrid and alternative setups in some regions. However, in the US Outback lineup through 2025, the two core options are the naturally aspirated 2.5L and the turbocharged 2.4L, with availability depending on the year and trim. Always check the exact build sheet for the specific vehicle you’re considering.
What this means for buyers
When choosing an Outback, buyers should decide between a focus on efficiency and steady performance (2.5L NA) versus stronger acceleration and higher torque (2.4L turbo). Considerations include daily driving needs, fuel price expectations, and whether the higher-trim turbo model fits within budget and fuel-friendliness goals.
Performance and efficiency trade-offs are a key part of the decision. The NA engine tends to deliver smoother, more economical operation for everyday use, while the turbo offers lively passing power and improved highway performance, particularly in situations requiring quick acceleration or higher-speed torque.
Summary
The Subaru Outback is not exclusively naturally aspirated. It offers both naturally aspirated (2.5-liter) and turbocharged (2.4-liter) engine options, with the NA engine serving as the standard setup on many trims and the turbo option reserved for higher trims and specific configurations. Buyers should confirm the exact engine in their chosen model year and trim to understand the performance and efficiency implications fully.
Why is Subaru discontinuing the Outback?
Subaru is not discontinuing the Outback nameplate; instead, the 2026 model represents a redesign that shifts the vehicle from a wagon to a more conventional SUV shape to align with consumer demand. This change is also influenced by the discontinuation of the Legacy sedan, which the Outback was historically based on. The 2025 model is the last of the wagon-style Outbacks, while the next generation will have a new exterior, interior, and a flatter, more upright roofline.
- Shift to SUV design: The Outback is being redesigned to look more like a traditional SUV, with a boxier body style, flatter roofline, and truck-like hood to appeal to a broader customer base.
- End of the Legacy sedan: The Outback was based on the Legacy sedan, which Subaru is discontinuing at the end of 2025 due to the overall market shift from sedans to SUVs.
- Last model year for wagon style: The 2025 model year marks the final version of the Outback as a wagon, with the 2026 model being the first with the new SUV body.
- Market trends: The change is a strategic move to remain relevant in a market where SUVs have become increasingly popular over station wagons.
What kind of engine does a Subaru Outback have?
2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine
The 2024 Subaru Outback lineup features a powerful 2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine as its standard engine. With the assistance of a Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission), this engine offers 182 horsepower, 176 pound-feet of torque, and a smooth driving experience.
What is a common problem with a Subaru Outback?
Common problems reported for the Subaru Outback include weak windshields prone to cracking, excessive oil consumption, and issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Other common problems can include airbag defects, oxygen sensor failure, premature brake wear, electrical issues, and head gasket failure on older models.
Mechanical and engine issues
- Oil Consumption: Many models, particularly older 2.5L engines, are known to burn oil between service intervals.
- Head Gasket Failure: This was a widespread issue in older models (roughly 1997-2012) with the EJ series engines, though newer models are less affected.
- CVT Transmission Problems: Issues like rough shifting, vibration, and delayed acceleration have been reported, particularly in models from 2010–2013.
- Suspension Wear: Suspension components can experience premature wear and tear.
- Premature Brake Wear: Some owners report that the brakes wear out faster than expected.
Electrical and other component issues
- Faulty Airbags: Some model years have been subject to recalls and complaints about defective airbags.
- Weak Windshields: Subaru Outbacks are frequently cited for weak windshields that are prone to cracking or chipping without a significant impact.
- Electrical and Battery Issues: Problems include unexpected battery drain and general electrical faults.
- Oxygen Sensor Failure: This is a common problem in many Subaru models.
- Cooling System Failure: Problems with the cooling system have been reported in some model years.
Which subarus are naturally aspirated?
The 2.5L flat-four comes next with 182 horsepower under the hood of the Legacy, Outback, and Forester while available to the Crosstrek's higher trim levels. These engines are naturally aspirated, meaning air intake depends on atmospheric pressure without forced induction from a turbocharger or supercharger.
